Mediating Land Use Disputes

Land use planning in America began with a concern for the efficient allocation of land, but has shifted to a concern for procedural fairness in allocating public resources, which requires increased stakeholder participation. This creates conflicts but also suggests a basis for more effective resolution of land use disputes. Research has shown that consensus building produces outcomes that are more satisfying to the parties, leaving them in a better position to deal with their differences in the future, gain confidence in the role of government, and empower citizens to take greater responsibility for land use decisions that affect them.